What should you know about the HUGO robotic surgery system?

A robotic surgery system uses a console, a camera and small instruments placed through keyhole incisions. The surgeon controls the instruments, views the operating area and makes each surgical decision. The system may provide a magnified view and fine instrument movement, but it is not an autonomous machine and does not replace the surgical team.

In gynaecology, a platform such as HUGO may be considered for procedures including Hysterectomy or Myomectomy when a minimally invasive approach is suitable. Whether it is appropriate depends on the condition, anatomy, previous operations, overall health and the surgeon's experience.

Ask your surgeon why robotic assistance is being suggested and whether keyhole, vaginal or open surgery is another reasonable route. Discuss the planned procedure, anaesthesia, incision sites, expected hospital stay, recovery restrictions and how complications would be managed. Follow instructions about medicines, fasting and arranging help at home.

After surgery, contact your team for fever, worsening pain, increasing redness or discharge from an incision, persistent vomiting, heavy bleeding, difficulty urinating or shortness of breath. Emergency help is needed for collapse, severe breathing difficulty or sudden chest pain.

Ask how often your proposed operation is performed with robotic assistance, what happens if the approach changes during surgery, and which recovery limits apply. Clarify how your fertility, bladder, bowel and sexual function may be affected by the planned operation.